Ceres · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ceres public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
River Road Water System Emergency
The River Road Mutual Water Company's only well failed October 16, leaving eight households without reliable water. The city declared an emergency, waived a hydrant meter deposit for water deliveries, and authorized a backup emergency connection to city water — while pursuing state funding so homeowners aren't stuck with the full bill.
Utility rate study expansion
A $31,780 amendment to Willdan's rate study adds a solid waste (sanitation) rate study on top of the water and wastewater update — a precursor to possible utility rate changes for residents.
Water System TCP Compliance Achieved
Big win quietly announced: after a decade of work, the state has confirmed Ceres is fully compliant on TCP groundwater contamination. No more quarterly public notifications, and the city is no longer barred from certain grants and water connections.
Watering Days Increase
The council agreed to study moving from two to three watering days per week, balancing resident demand against state water use efficiency limits and supply constraints.
City Hall sewer lateral rehabilitation
Resident John Warren warned the sewer plant is near capacity, the city already sends sewage to Turlock and Modesto, and roads like Blaker need upgrading before annexation. He also noted unanswered EIR public comments.
2025 Urban Water Management Plan and watering days
The council unanimously adopted the state-required 2025 water plan, which shows Ceres well under its conservation targets. That prompted a push — and a new referral — to bring back a third weekly watering day during summer.